Flailing index finger

[BRT]

Howdy! I've played guitar for over twenty years but am new to exploring fingerstyle guitar on acoustic. When working on exercises, I have noticed something that I am curious as to whether or not it is typical.

My index finger on my right hand has the tendency to flail out, almost fully extended, usually when I try to pick with any amount of speed. But it seems I have to really focus to keep it down. Now, I am a total beginner with this technique, so it may be something that self-corrects over time as muscle memory develops. But it's absolutely maddening!

So, is this a normal thing or do I have a freak show of an index finger?

Thanks!

[rick-slo]

Picking what (scales, arpeggios, Travis style)?

[DukeX]

Maybe that index finger of yours just wants to frail.

[BRT]

Arpeggios and travis picking. Scales not as much.

[rick-slo]

Originally Posted by BRT

Arpeggios and travis picking. Scales not as much.

O.K. On single note scales the finger being extended is fine , probably even good. How many picks per second starts to be a problem?

[BRT]

Originally Posted by rick-slo

O.K. On single note scales the finger being extended is fine , probably even good. How many picks per second starts to be a problem?

Well, I'm pretty new to it, so it doesn't take long for my finger to start going wild. If I slow back down and concentrate, I can keep it in check. But it feels like I'm fighting it.

It may be a lack of independence from my thumb, even. If I anchor my thumb, I'm fine, but once I incorporate it, the issue can arise.

[rick-slo]

Originally Posted by BRT

Well, I'm pretty new to it, so it doesn't take long for my finger to start going wild. If I slow back down and concentrate, I can keep it in check. But it feels like I'm fighting it.

It may be a lack of independence from my thumb, even. If I anchor my thumb, I'm fine, but once I incorporate it, the issue can arise.

Don't know what tempo this occurs at but in any case probably issue is secondary to increasing tension and bouncing picking hand. Slowing increase tempo on some basic picking patterns and more speed will come in time without the hand tensing up.